Guest Post: Gifting and Partying the Professional Way

{Today’s Guest Post written by stationery designer Ashley Quintana of Ashley Brooke Designs. Ashley also writes a blog on etiquette and other lovely things. You can follow her on Twitter @abdesigns}

The holidays are here and before you know it you’ll be receiving invitations for holiday functions and the neighbors will be bringing over cookies and cocoa.  But as a wedding professional there will also be holiday situations that arise in the work place.  What’s the proper etiquette on getting a gift for the boss?  Can I skip the office Christmas party?  Here are some points of etiquette to be aware of when it comes to gifting in the workplace and the office holiday party.

Gifting in the Workplace
If you want to give gifts to a supervisor or colleagues here are some things to remember.

1. Check your company policy.  Some companies have strict rules for giving and/or receiving gifts.  Before you spend any time agonizing over the perfect selection, be sure that giving any gift isn’t going to get you in some kind of trouble.
2. The type of gift you give should depend on the occasion, your relationship and your position in the company.  A professional gift is appropriate for someone you don’t know very well and it could be something the person could use in the office like a calendar or reference book.  A personal gift speaks more to the person’s interests and is appropriate if you know the recipient fairly well.  Think stationery, a cool photography book or subscription to Martha Stewart Weddings.
3. Always avoid gifts that are too expensive or personal.  A gift with a romantic overtone such as jewelry, perfume or flowers is never appropriate.
4. Generally speaking giving your boss a gift is inappropriate unless you have worked together for several years and have a good rapport.  A handwritten card or group gift from the staff are good alternatives.
5. Give in the right spirit.  Never give a gift expecting anything in return be it another gift or special favors.  This isn’t to say you can’t use this as an opportunity to thank you to your go-to guy or girl for all their help this year, just be sure you don’t have any ulterior motives.

The Office Holiday Party
It is in your best professional interest to absolutely attend your company’s Christmas or holiday party.  If there are extenuating circumstances that prevent you from doing so be sure and send your regrets promptly.  If appropriate you can also follow up the event with a hand-written note to the specific host or hostess letting them know how much you regretted having the miss the gathering.  If you do attend, be sure not to bring any uninvited guests.  If you are allowed a plus one, it will be indicated on the invitation.  Don’t make any assumptions regarding extra guests.

Other things to note:

• Eat and drink in moderation.  Being gluttonous or inebriated is not appropriate.
• Dress appropriately.  Tight, revealing or sloppy clothing should not be the attire of the night.
• Encourage conversation about life outside of work but be aware that you are at an office function and what you say will be remembered by your colleagues

I hope this advice is helpful to you during this holiday season.  If you have any specific etiquette questions, I’d love to try and answer them for you.  Don’t hesitate to send your questions to ab@ashleybrookedesigns.com.  Happy Holidays!

-Ashley